Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer / Sports Car (Convertible)
Competitors 1985:
Jaguar XJ-S, Porsche 928, Chevrolet Corvette C4, BMW 6 Series (E24)
Vehicle Appeal:
Elegant styling, robust engineering, comfortable ride, refined V8 engine, convertible experience.
Cost Savings:
Significant savings compared to purchasing expensive paper service manuals; enables DIY repairs, reducing labor costs.
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and general owners seeking to understand and maintain their vehicle.
User Benefit:
Empowers users to perform repairs, diagnose issues accurately, and prevent overcharging by workshops.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Wiring Schematics, Part Layouts, Part Numbers
Estimated Pages:
Over 1000
Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Digital Format:
PDF (Sections)
Compatibility:
Works on all computers with Adobe Acrobat Reader (Mac, Windows)
Powertrain:
Engine (M116, 3.8L V8), Fuel System (Bosch K-Jetronic), Ignition System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Automatic Transmission (4-speed 722.3), Driveshaft, Differential
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (Independent, Double Wishbone), Rear Suspension (Independent, Semi-Trailing Arm), Power Steering System, Steering Gearbox
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - if equipped
Electrical Electronics:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting System, Gauges and Instruments, Fuse/Relay Boxes, Engine Control Unit (ECU) and Sensors, Power Windows, Central Locking, Climate Control Electronics
Body Chassis:
Chassis Structure, Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Bumpers
HVAC:
Air Conditioning System, Heater System, Ventilation
Maintenance:
Routine Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Level Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement, Brake Pad and Rotor Service, Tire Rotation
Repair Troubleshooting:
Engine Overhaul (partial/full), Fuel Injection System Diagnosis and Repair, Ignition System Troubleshooting, Transmission Service and Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repair, Electrical System Diagnostics, HVAC System Repair, Convertible Top Actuator and Mechanism Repair, Body Panel Repair and Alignment
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, Diagnostic Procedures for Specific Systems, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams and exploded views for part identification and assembly/disassembly.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (refer to manual for exact specification and filter replacement).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual; typically a high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic 15W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate and original specifications.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.0 Liters (with filter change).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Common Problems:
Timing chain wear (though less prevalent in M116 than earlier M117), fuel distributor leaks (K-Jetronic), vacuum hose deterioration, climate control servo issues, convertible top hydraulic leaks, rust in typical Mercedes-Benz areas (wheel arches, sills).
Brake System Considerations:
Brake fluid should be changed regularly. Caliper seals and brake hoses are common wear items.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Founded on engineering excellence, luxury, and durability.
R107 Introduction:
The R107 platform was introduced in 1971, replacing the W113 'Pagoda' SL. The 380SL variant was introduced for the US market in 1972.
380Sl Updates 1985:
The 1985 model year saw the engine displacement increase to 3.8L (from 3.5L and 3.8L variants in earlier years for the US market) to meet emissions regulations and improve torque delivery. Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection was standard.
Production Period:
The R107 SL was produced from 1971 to 1989, making it one of Mercedes-Benz's longest-running platforms.
